Spring is in the air, and this is the time of year when Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) chapters across the country take millions of steps during the Great Strides walks to cure the genetic disease. In Northeast Florida, six Great Strides walks will take place throughout April and May, offering a variety of locations to participate and raise money in support of CFF research. Last year, North Florida teams raised more than $350,000 and this year’s goal is to top $400,000.

The schedule for Northeast Florida Great Strides includes:

• Saturday, April 14 – St. Augustine Great Strides at World Golf Village
• Saturday, April 28 –  Clay County Great Strides at Orange Park Kennel Club
• Thursday, May 3 – RiverWalk Great Strides at River City Brewing Company
• Saturday, May 5 – Beaches Great Strides at Hanna Park
• Thursday, May 17 – Keiser University Great Strides at Southpoint Campus
• Saturday, May 19 – Fernandina Beach Great Strides at Fort Clinch State Park

Check-in time for all Saturday walks begins at 8 a.m. and the walk distance is 10K (or 6.2 miles). The routes are suitable for walking, running, strollers, wagons, bicycles, scooters and four-legged friends. A Kid’s Corner at each walk location provides activities, foods and festivities for the smallest participants and their families.

The Riverwalk Great Strides walk takes place on a shorter course along the Southbank Riverwalk adjacent to the St. Johns River, starting and finishing at River City Brewing in the outside deck area. The Keiser University site is also a shorter walk utilizing the campus perimeter. Check-in time for both Thursday walks is 5:30 p.m. Following the walks, participants will enjoy music, and light snacks. Riverwalk Great Strides also features a silent auction.

Participants can register for Great Strides by visiting the Great Strides website at www.cff.org/Chapters/nfl/greatstrides. Once the team leader has registered online, walkers can sign up and utilize the online fundraising tools provided. Everyone who raises at least $100 receives an official Great Strides team t-shirt.

We hope to see you at one of the walks!